ASX 200 Bounces Back as Oil Prices Rise and Gold Gains
The ASX 200 Index closed Friday's session with a small decline, but market analysts are optimistic about a rebound on Monday. According to SPI futures, the benchmark index is expected to open 33 points or 0.35% higher.
Oil prices rose overnight, which could positively impact energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS). The WTI crude oil price increased by 1.15% to US$78.18 a barrel, while the Brent crude oil price was up 1.3% at US$83.55 a barrel.
Shares in AVITA Medical Inc (ASX: AVH) could also see an increase after analysts at Bell Potter upgraded their rating from 'hold' to 'speculative buy' with a significantly improved price target of $2.10 (from $1.20). The broker believes the company's investment case has improved due to improved reimbursement visibility and stronger RECELL growth.
The gold price also rose on Friday night, potentially benefiting ASX 200 gold shares Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST). The gold futures price increased by 2.3% to US$4,399.7 an ounce.
On Monday, investors will be watching the release of CAR Group Limited's (ASX: CAR) FY 2026 results, which are expected to show sales of $1,273.3 million, underlying EBITDA of $709.8 million, and adjusted net profit after tax of $406.1 million.